Fort Worth's Burnett Foundation Selling Matisse Sculptures

The Burnett Foundation is selling four Henri Matisse sculptures known as "The Backs."

The foundation bought the artwork in 1982 and displayed the items in Fort Worth's Burnett Park. The art in 2000 was moved to the Kimbell Art Museum for safekeeping.

Executive Director Neils Agather says the value of the sculptures now far exceeds anything that could justify owning them. The foundation's mission is to support activities in the community, not own art.

Several casts of each were made. One sold in November for $48 million.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports the Kimbell Art Museum will receive two other works from the foundation, Henry Moore's "Figure in Shelter" and Fernand Leger's "La Fleur qui Marche."

Sotheby's is organizing a private sale for "The Backs."

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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